The former Arsenal man has just 22 appearances to his name for the Catalans since moving to the Camp Nou for a fee of £15m in 2014. During 2016-17, he spent time on loan at Roma where he played 12 times but the Italian club failed to take up their option to buy as injuries once again bit.

A former Belgium international, Vermaelen’s career has been constantly interrupted by injury. Since suffering a snapped Achilles tendon in 2010, the central defender has only played more than 20 league matches in two seasons.

Inter, determined to challenge for the Serie A title for the first time since 2009-10, appear to have seen off the challenges from West Ham United and Everton, as well as Anderlecht from his native Belgium, to land the central defender.

New Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde fielded Vermaelen in 3 – 0 win over Murcia in the first leg of the Copa Del Rey Round of 32 last week. However, he has yet to show inclination to include the Belgian in the league or Champions League.

Vermaelen is fourth-choice (out of four) centre-back for the Blaugrana with only injuries and suspensions aiding him. An escape to Milan be just what the doctor ordered